Curious if the HCG diet really works? Biomedical scientist, Dr. Ben Bikman breaks down the science behind this popular weight loss fad.
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A Hormone With a Controversial History
The HCG Diet has promised rapid weight loss for decades, combining injections of the hormone HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) with extreme calorie restriction. Originally introduced in the 1950s by Dr. Albert Simeons, the diet claimed HCG could mobilize fat from stubborn areas like hips and thighs, suppress hunger, and protect muscle mass.
What the Studies Reveal—And What They Don’t
Dr. Ben Bikman, a biomedical scientist and metabolic expert, breaks down the research in a recent lecture. He highlights multiple randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses—spanning from the 1970s to today—that consistently show HCG offers no benefit over placebo. Whether it’s weight loss, fat redistribution, muscle preservation, or hunger suppression, the science is clear: the results come from eating just 500 calories a day—not from the hormone.
Does HCG Burn Fat, Spare Muscle, or Reduce Hunger?
From a cellular and hormonal perspective, the claims fall apart. While HCG may affect thyroid function during pregnancy, the doses used in the HCG diet are too low to cause any real impact. In fact, adult fat cells don’t respond to HCG the way some early studies in newborns suggested. Even worse, some evidence suggests HCG may actually promote the formation of new fat cells. As for hunger? It’s more likely that nausea (a side effect of the injections) or placebo effect explains why some feel less hungry—not actual appetite regulation.
So What Should We Do Instead?
Dr. Bikman concludes with a simple but powerful suggestion: stop fighting hunger with extreme diets. Instead, take the first step toward fat loss by lowering insulin through smart carbohydrate control. When you prioritize protein and embrace healthy fats, your body aligns with its natural metabolic processes—no gimmicks, no shortcuts.
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The information on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.